Major Fire Erupts in Akola, LPG Cylinder Explosions Worsen Damage
A significant fire broke out in the early hours of Saturday behind the City Kotwali police station in Akola, Maharashtra, resulting in extensive damage to at least five shops and triggering panic among local residents. The incident, which occurred around 2 am, saw two LPG cylinders explode inside the shops, intensifying the flames and causing the fire to spread rapidly to adjoining properties.
Fire Spreads Quickly, Gutting Multiple Shops
The fire originated in a row of six to seven roadside shops, including establishments selling readymade garments, cloth, frames, and bindis. The explosions from the LPG cylinders accelerated the blaze, leaving five shops completely gutted and two others partially damaged. Fire tenders rushed to the scene shortly after the incident was reported, with personnel working tirelessly for nearly four hours to extinguish the flames.
Firefighters encountered challenges in controlling the fire due to the proximity of a nearby dargah, which required careful handling to prevent further spread. The rapid escalation of the blaze caused significant property loss and disruption in the area.
Allegations of Delayed Fire Brigade Response
Following the incident, some shopkeepers alleged that the fire brigade arrived late, leading to increased damages. However, Akola Fire Department Chief Manish Kathale refuted these claims, stating that personnel responded immediately after receiving information from the police. He explained that at the time of the alert, one fire engine was already addressing another emergency—a bus fire on the national highway.
"Given the gravity of the fire, additional engines were dispatched, and assistance was sought from the MIDC fire brigade," Kathale told the media. He also highlighted a technical issue, noting that the department's landline has been non-functional since March 12 due to a glitch, which prevented the fire alert from being received over the phone. Consequently, police personnel had to visit the fire office in person to relay the information.
Political Leaders Visit Site, Shopkeepers Seek Assistance
Local BJP leaders, including Mayor Sharda Khedkar, Standing Committee Chairman Vijay Agrawal, and MLC Vasant Khandelwal, visited the site to assess the damage and interact with affected shopkeepers. The shop owners reiterated their complaints about the alleged delay in the fire brigade's arrival.
Agrawal assured that while there is no government-level compensation provision, efforts would be made to explore possible assistance for the victims. The leaders emphasized the need for support and recovery measures in the aftermath of the fire.
Investigation Underway to Determine Fire Cause
Authorities have stated that the exact cause of the fire remains unclear. Officials are examining whether the blaze was triggered by a short circuit or other factors. Police and fire department teams have launched a thorough investigation into the incident to ascertain the origins and contributing elements of the fire.
The incident has raised concerns about fire safety and emergency response protocols in the area, prompting calls for improved infrastructure and quicker intervention measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
